Breaking News: Estonia Bans Victory Day Celebrations
Estonian officials prohibit Victory Day commemorations
Brace yourself, folks! The Police and Border Guard Board has announced a ban on public gatherings in Harju, Lääne, and Ida-Virumaa counties from May 8 to 10, 2025. This means no marches, rallies, or demonstrations during those days. So, if you were planning to march, you might wanna rethink that!
According to Ats Kübsarepp, the prefect of the Northern Prefecture, "propaganda" and support for Russian politics through symbols, words, or actions are off-limits. The authorities aim to crush any activities perceived as endorsing Russian militarism.
On May 9, the police will be working overtime in other Estonian cities to intervene promptly in case of violations. Remember, the use of symbols associated with Russian aggression is punishable by a hefty fine or even arrest.
The crackdown isn't surprising, given the heightened geopolitical tensions. Estonia's move targets symbols and events linked to the Russian Federation. For instance, symbols like St. George ribbons, "Z" and "V" signs are off limits.
Things have been escalating since 2022 when Estonia, along with Latvia and Lithuania, criminalized May 9 commemorations, with fines of up to €2,400 or arrest. This year is no exception, and the authorities are leaving nothing to chance.
So, folks, let's celebrate our victories without stepping on anyone's toes, eh? Stay tuned for updates!
UPDATE:Did you know that the ban also extends to online activities? Posting prohibited symbols on social media can land you in trouble, just like Ilya Maslyakov who was fined €1,000 for a 2019 video featuring a St. George ribbon. The Baltic states are starting to distance themselves from Soviet-era commemorations and counter perceived Russian influence.
Sources:1. BBC News2. Politico3. Reuters4. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty5. Deutsche Welle
- This ban on public gatherings in certain Estonian counties during May 8-10, 2025, also extends to online activities, so be cautious about posting prohibited symbols on social media.
- Last year, Estonia, just like Latvia and Lithuania, made commemorating May 9 a punishable offense with fines of up to €2,400 or arrest, and this year seems to follow the same trend.
- The authorities aim to crush any activities perceived as endorsing Russian militarism, not only limiting it to physical protests but also outlawing certain symbols like St. George ribbons, "Z" and "V" signs.
- The moves taken by Estonia indicate a distance from Soviet-era commemorations and a counteraction against perceived Russian influence in policy-and-legislation and geopolitics, part of a broader strategy to control the flow of propaganda in Estonian politics and general news.
